The Indian women’s hockey team faced a significant setback in their quest for Olympic qualification as they lost 1-0 to Japan in the third-place playoff at the FIH Olympic qualifier in Ranchi. The defeat means that India will not be able to participate in the Paris Olympics, following their semifinal finish at the Tokyo Olympics.
Japan secured their victory with a goal from Kana Urata’s penalty corner conversion midway through the first quarter. Despite India’s dominance in possession and territorial advantage in the later quarters, they failed to find the back of the net, struggling against Japan’s solid defense.
Despite having nine penalty corners, India couldn’t convert any, and their attempts to break down Japan’s organization proved futile. Captain Savita Punia might reflect on the conceded goal, as it went through her legs during an attempt to kick it away.
The toll of the previous night’s semifinal shootout defeat to Germany seemed evident in India’s performance, as they started the game on the back foot. The team seemed to lack a clear plan, resorting to hopeful hits into the circle rather than a strategic approach.
Even when Japan received a late green card, reducing them to ten players, India’s coach Janneke Schopman didn’t opt to remove the goalkeeper for an extra outfield player. This decision raised questions, as an additional player might have created more opportunities, especially when Japan had one less defender.
The disappointing outcome in Ranchi adds to India’s recent struggles, including underwhelming performances in the 2022 World Cup and the 2023 Asian Games. The teary end in Ranchi could potentially jeopardize Schopman’s position as India’s coach, as achieving Olympic qualification was considered a minimum requirement.
While India had their moments during the week in Ranchi, they fell short in crucial situations. Japan’s disciplined adherence to their game-plan frustrated India, ultimately earning them the win and a spot in the Paris Olympics.
